Red campion Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite' (PBR)
ABOUT
Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite', commonly known as red campion, is an ornamental plant with vibrant attributes. The foliage of this variety is characterized by deep green leaves that are oval-shaped with a smooth to slightly hairy texture. These leaves grow in a pair-wise fashion, along the stems, creating a lush look. The most striking feature of red campion 'Rollie's Favorite' is its beautiful flowers. The blooms are a rich pink to reddish hue with a slight variation in tone, giving them a delicate and attractive appearance. Each flower is comprised of five petals that are deeply notched at the tips, suggesting a somewhat fringed look. The center of the flower hosts a bouquet of stamens, adding contrast with their prominent features. Flowers are produced abundantly and grow in loose clusters at the top of the stems, contributing to the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. When in full bloom, red campion 'Rollie's Favorite' is a sight to behold, providing a splash of color that can illuminate garden spaces. The combination of its green foliage and deep pink flowers makes it a favored choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of natural beauty to their surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Caryophyllaceae
Synonyms
Red Campion, Red Catchfly
Common names
Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Red campion is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary and it is advisable not to ingest any part of a plant unless it is known to be edible. If an unusual reaction occurs after handling or ingesting red campion, seeking medical advice is recommended.
To pets
Red campion is not commonly listed as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Nonetheless, it is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants as a precautionary measure. If a pet ingests red campion and exhibits any signs of distress or unusual behavior, it is prudent to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: It is beneficial for bees and other pollinating insects, enhancing local biodiversity.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its vibrant pink flowers, it adds color and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Low maintenance: The plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring only minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods without much water, making it suitable for drier climates or water-wise gardens.
- Long flowering period: It has a lengthy blooming time which keeps gardens colorful for an extended season.
- Wildlife-friendly: Can provide a habitat and food source for a variety of wildlife, especially insects.
- Non-invasive: It does not typically spread uncontrollably, which helps to maintain biodiversity by not outcompeting native species.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Creative landscaping: Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite' is often used in cottage gardens or wildflower meadows for its tall stems and vibrant pink flowers, creating an informal and natural aesthetic.
- Erosion control: Due to its extensive root system, this plant can be employed on slopes or banks to help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Luminous night garden plant: The light pink blossoms can catch moonlight or garden lighting, adding a glowing effect to night-time gardens.
- Butterfly and bee garden: The nectar-rich flowers attract pollinating insects, making it a beneficial addition to gardens designed to support local pollinators.
- Border plant: Its upright growth habit and colorful flowers make Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite' a good choice for borders along walkways or garden beds.
- Seasonal groundcover: This plant can be used as temporary groundcover in spring and summer, adding lush greenery and vibrant colors to the landscape.
- Photography subject: Due to its striking flowers, it serves as an excellent subject for botanical photography, attracting hobbyists and professionals alike.
- Education and conservation: It can be included in educational gardens to teach about native plants and their role in supporting biodiversity.
- Artistic inspiration: The vibrant colors and delicate form of the plant can inspire artists and be used as a live model for drawing, painting, or botanical illustration.
- Thematic events: For garden parties or outdoor events with a pink theme, Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite' can be utilized to add natural elements that enhance the setting.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Campion is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Campion is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction: The bright and eye-catching flowers of Red Campion may symbolize attraction, drawing in both people and pollinators with their vivid hues.
- Adaptability: As a plant that can thrive in various conditions, Red Campion symbolizes the ability to adapt and flourish in different environments.
- Feminine Vibrancy: Since the plant has the "dioica" status, meaning it has separate male and female plants, the Red Campion symbolizes the vibrancy and beauty of femininity.
- The Balance of Dualities: Through its dioecious nature, Red Campion can also represent the balance and unity between masculine and feminine energies.
WaterRed campion, commonly known as Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite', requires regular watering to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season. It is best to water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage, with approximately one gallon per plant for each watering session. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases and ensure the water reaches the root zone by applying it directly to the soil. During the winter months or periods of rainfall, reduce the frequency to prevent waterlogging, as Red campion prefers well-drained soil.
LightRed campion thrives in partial shade to full sun, making it adaptable to a variety of lighting conditions. The ideal spot for this plant is one that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in regions with hot summers. It can also grow well in dappled sunlight under open canopies or at the woodland's edge where it receives filtered light throughout the day.
TemperatureRed campion is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 20°F in the winter to as high as 85°F during the summer months. The ideal temperature for promoting healthy growth is between 60°F and 75°F. It's important to protect the plant from extreme heat or frost to prevent damage.
PruningPruning Red campion involves cutting back the foliage after flowering to encourage a second flush of blooms and to maintain a neat appearance. It's best to prune in late summer or early fall. Deadheading spent flowers regularly can also promote more blooms and prevent self-seeding if not desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Red Campion 'Rollie's Favorite' requires a well-draining, fertile soil mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite can provide the necessary drainage and nutrients.
RepottingRed Campion 'Rollie's Favorite' typically doesn’t require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or as needed when the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingRed Campion 'Rollie's Favorite' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity conditions in the outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Red Campion, ensure bright indirect light and regular watering.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, water regularly, and protect from extreme cold.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSilene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite', commonly known as Red Campion, begins its life cycle as a seed, usually germinating in early spring when soil temperatures rise. After seedling establishment, the plant enters a period of vegetative growth, producing a rosette of leaves and building up resources. As the plant matures, typically within its second year, it develops flowering stems and produces pink to red flowers from late spring to early summer, which are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, the plant sets seed in the form of a capsule containing numerous small seeds, which are dispersed by wind, water, or animals. As an herbaceous perennial, Red Campion will die back to the ground in autumn, but its root system remains alive underground, enabling it to resprout the following spring. The cycle repeats annually, with the plant potentially living for several years, depending on environmental conditions and management.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Silene dioica 'Rollie's Favorite', commonly known as Red campion, is often propagated by seed. The most popular method of propagation is sowing seeds, which can be done in late winter to early spring. To propagate by seed, collect seeds from the plant as the seed capsules mature and start to open. Clean the seeds and sow them thinly in trays of seed compost, lightly covering them with a fine layer of soil. Ensure the trays are kept moist and at a temperature of about 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit (15-18 degrees Celsius). The seeds usually germinate within two to three weeks. Once seedlings have developed true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots to grow on before being planted out in the garden in early summer.
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